Taylor looking for fire in the players’ eyes against Chelsea | OneFootball

Gareth Taylor says he wants to see the fire in his players’ eyes ahead of Sunday’s huge Barclays Women’s Super League tie against Chelsea.

City welcome the reigning champions to the Academy Stadium for a 12:40 (UK) kick-off, with just two points separating the sides ahead of the action.

Neither team have tasted defeat since September in the league and, in front of a sell-out crowd, it’s sure to be another thrilling encounter.

And while the manager didn’t shy away from the potential significance of this fixture, he’s confident that his players will rise to the occasion.

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"I think a draw is not a disaster but it can feel like that in this league especially with the makeup of it with not many games," Taylor explained in his pre-match press conference.

"Sometimes a draw can cost you a league title sometimes.

"It’s tight in that respect but again we feel we have enough particularly with what we’ve seen in recent weeks.

"Usually the same for most teams. For us it’s a game to look forward to on our patch.

"If someone had given us this after the first two games of the season we’d have grabbed their hands off. What an opportunity for us.

"I want to see the fire in the players’ eyes which I’m seeing at the moment, and I want to see the bit between our teeth ready to take on the challenge."

The manager was also delighted with the attitude of his players following Sunday’s FA Cup exit at the hands of Aston Villa.

Rachel Daly’s extra time strike proved the difference at Bescot Stadium to consign City to just our second defeat in 22 matches in all competitions.

However, the response from his players has given Taylor confidence that our rare setback last weekend is firmly in the rear-view mirror.

He said: "We’ve suffered setbacks but the team bounced back.

"Regardless of what happens at the weekend I’ve been really positive with the signs that I’ve seen and I think there’s a determination in the players to maybe right a few wrongs.

"If you look at the game at the weekend it’s always about final bits and decision making.

"The game never changes, if you don't take those moments you leave yourself vulnerable. It’s not the first time it’s happened and it won’t be the last.

"But there’s a lot of positivity around the weekend’s games.

"We're really looking forward to being here in front of our own crowd.

"The fans have been so good with us, being behind us and pushing us and understanding what we’re trying to do and achieve.

"I’ve been really pleased with what I’ve seen."

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The boss also revealed that he has a clean bill of health ahead of Chelsea’s visit.

Esme Morgan made her first start since recovering from an Achilles injury against Aston Villa on Sunday, while Hayley Raso and Alanna Kennedy also returned to the bench.

“Nothing’s changed,” Taylor added when asked for a squad update.

“Everyone has come through training well.

“Outside of Khiara [Keating], everyone is fit and available.”